Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup represents a significant setback for Italian football and a broader system undergoing comprehensive reforms. The upcoming Euro 2032 tournament, co-hosted with Turkey, presents an opportunity to address long-standing infrastructure projects initiated primarily since 1990. Turkey has notably invested in stadium improvements, including Vodafone Park in Istanbul and the Yeni Hatay Stadium in Antakya.
However, the future of Italian stadiums remains uncertain. Currently, only the Allianz stadium, home to Juventus in Turin, meets contemporary standards. Only Udinese, Atalanta, and Sassuolo possess stadiums that adhere to modern requirements.
UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin has cautioned Italy regarding the need for infrastructure upgrades. The success of Euro 2032 hinges on improvements to existing stadiums. Milan and Inter have announced plans to explore alternative venues, raising questions about the tournament’s potential locations.
